Human trials ahead for remote bladder control

People who suffer from incontinence may soon be able to regain control of their bladders with the help of a remote-controlled replacement sphincter.

Melbourne researchers have trialled a technique in animals that uses muscles from the animal's organs to build a new sphincter, which is then attached to an electrical stimulator implanted in the body.

The sphincter is the band of muscles that controls the release of urine.

A remote control can then be used by the person to release the sphincter at the push of a button, ensuring that urine escapes only when the person chooses.

A professor of anatomy and cell biology at Melbourne University, John Furness, said urinary incontinence was an increasingly common problem that could cause great misery for those who suffered from it. It is most commonly caused by a slackening of the sphincter muscles, particularly in women who have had children or in men who have had prostate surgery. It tends to become more problematic as people age.

The condition is currently treated with surgery or with incontinence pads, which could be dispensed with by people who have the device implanted.

Having successfully tested the pacemaker-like technique in dogs, rabbits and rats, researchers are now working on developing components for the implant that will be safe for humans. Human trials would then begin soon.

If the trials are as successful as researchers hope, the device could be available in about five years, Professor Furness said, and would cost $8000 to $10,000.

The device will be provided by Australian bionic ear manufacturer Cochlear.